Tom Russell was appointed as Interim Director of Parks and Recreation to create the bridge between retiring director Mike Hahm and the new hire (which is in process).
Tom also stepped in to serve as ex-officio board member for the Conservancy. He is a life-long Saint Paulite. He grew up at Saint Paul Rec Centers and has worked for the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department for 37 years. Tom started working for the department in 1984 and has held many positions during his career. He began as a Recreation Aid, managing Recreation Centers, serving as a Community Education Coordinator, Recreation Services Supervisor, Chief Financial Officer, and Deputy Director.
Tom graduated the University of Saint Thomas with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration-Management in Marketing.
Tom loves Saint Paul’s parks along the river, and he enjoys visiting all the projects that he may have had a hand in developing. Tom strives to keep Saint Paul’s Parks world-class. He is proud of the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation organization, its facilities, programs, and community involvement.